[video/open to action]

[anunluckypenny]

Hey. Happy October, everyone.

[Penny is up bright and early. From the looks of things, she just finished setting up the usual buffet-style breakfast at the Welcome Center. No one else is around yet; the sun's only now beginning to shine in through the windows in the main room, painting the colorful rug and worn cream carpet with oranges and golds.

It's almost ridiculously pleasant for the City. Then again, consider the management.]

I've never been here for an October--not that I can remember, I mean--but I've heard that it's not always one of the best months to be in the City. Kind of hard to believe with how nice it is outside.

Anyway, the main reason I'm posting or blogging or whatever is to let the newer people in the City know--and remind everyone else, too--that the Welcome Center and the Youth Center are both open. We have some warmer clothes in the Welcome Center for anyone who doesn't have much in the way of those, along with blankets. There're always rooms open in the Youth Center for any kids out there who don't want to live on their own just yet, and we've got a few beds over here for anyone else. Thanks to the Blue Light--shameless plug, but go there and spend money if you have it because the food's amazing--the Welcome Center serves three meals a day, so come in and help yourself if you're new or just having a rough time.

Or, you know... if you want to talk. You don't need to be new here to stop by.

Also--and this is kind of exciting--volunteers at both centers will be getting actual salaries now, so if you could give me your banking info whenever's good for you, I'll get the paying started. If you're not the banking type, let me know and we'll work something out, okay? And if anyone's looking for a job, there're definitely openings.

Even if you're not working for either center, I'd really, really appreciate it if you could point anyone who looks new and lost this way. Thanks a bunch!

[She reaches over to turn off the video... and pauses.]

Hey, has anyone seen Ja--um, Doctor Wilson lately? Just curious.

Comments

[mr_phale]

It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Penny. My name is Aziraphale, though generally people here have called me Phale.

[anunluckypenny]

It's amazing to meet you, too, Aziraphale. So you've been around for a while?

[This baffles her. She likes to think she knows the faces of most people in the City, even if she doesn't know them properly.]

[mr_phale]

Er, not exactly. But, I did spend some time here, some years ago.

[anunluckypenny]

Seriously? And you remember it?

[mr_phale]

It's a bit hazy, but yes, in general I do.

[anunluckypenny]

That's neat, even if it's kind of hazy. I was here before too, I guess, but I don't remember anything about it.

Is there anyone you remember here? Friends?

[mr_phale]

Most of my acquaintances, sadly, are gone, though there are a few familiar faces. And, er. A friend from home, as well.

I've gathered it's not uncommon to forget, however. Many people do.

[anunluckypenny]

Well... I'm glad you have some people you know here. I've heard that makes it easier. You know, to adjust.

If you need anything, you can always come by the Welcome Center.

[mr_phale]

Ah, not to worry, we've settled in quite well.

But, should you-- er-- need a hand around the place, I hope you'll let me know.

[anunluckypenny]

Oh--thank you. I never turn down a helping hand.

[mr_phale]

Offering one is something of a habit of mine.

[anunluckypenny]

That must keep you busy. Thank you so much, Aziraphale... I'll be sure to keep in touch, okay?

[mr_phale]

Please do.